This DVD of a one hour National Geographic special touting the touring exhibit of Tutankhamun's treasures is no exception, and is actually better than many that even National Geographic has produced. Covering the treasures themselves, the history of Tut and his family, as well as the discovery of the tomb in 1922, this is a great generalist piece with an amazing amount of detail.

Featuring interviews with many experts, including the ubiquitous Zahi Hawass (is there any special about ancient Egypt that Dr. Hawass doesn't appear in?), and hosted by Omar Sharif, looking a little mummified himself, the special is a brisk, fact-filled journey through several fascinating histories, from Tut to Howard Carter.

The DVD

Video:
As with all standard def NG specials, this is annoyingly filmed in a 1.78:1 aspect ratio without enhancement for widescreen televisions. That said, the image is sharp, with excellent color and contrast, especially wonderful when viewing the rare treasures of Tut's tomb.

Sound:
This is where this DVD comes up strangely short--whoever mixed the volume of the documentary must have had his hearing aids turned up to 11, because it is virtually impossible to hear. Sharif's hushed, heavily accented narration is especially difficult to make out at times, and there is no subtitle option. Listen to the difference in volume between the documentary voiceovers and interviews and the closing credits music--suddenly during the credits there's actual volume again. Strange, considering the fact that the volume on the extras is fine.

Extras:
The DVD comes through with several excellent, well-produced extras, including a great mini-documentary on Howard Carter and his attempts to find Tut's tomb (also the subject of an excellent BBC dramatized version from a few years ago), a nice behind the scenes look at the Tut exhibition, and a neat video montage of over 100 artifacts from the exhibit itself.

Final Thoughts:
If you're an ancient Egypt nut, this is actually one DVD you might consider owning, both for the depth of its treatment and the breadth of its subject matters, despite the sound problems. If you're the occasional Egypt fan, this would make an excellent rental, especially for children who may have an interest or Egyptian themed homework coming up.

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"G-d made stars galore" & "Hey, what kind of a crappy fortune is this?" ZMK, modern prophet